10 Runway-Inspired Outfit Pairings = Fashion Gold

We're no mathematicians, but even we know there's only a finite number of outfit permutations out there (think: tops and pants, tops and skirts, tops over dresses), all of which we've exhausted to no end. But the spring/summer 2014 collections are chock-full of sartorial gems that have us considering (and reconsidering) styles for fresh, unexpected pairings.

We turned to the runways, like those of Preen by Thornton Bregazzi (pictured, above), Rag & Bone and Jason Wu, for ideas and struck fashion mathematics gold. To wit: A sweatshirt + graphic asymmetric midi = the perfect solution to tricky in-between season dressing. Minimalist overalls + cropped cami = a chic new take on the dungarees trend. A basic shirt + shimmery pencil skirt = a way to elevate a closet basic, or to ground an overly showy piece.

5.
Long-Sleeve Top + Metallic Skirt

Runway inspiration: Jason WuA basic long-sleeve tee (Madewell, $55; madewell.com) can be found in everybody's closet. Dig it up and let it take the spotlight with the help of a shiny skirt (Jonathan Simkhai, $563; matchesfashion.com).

10.
Utility Jacket + Flirty Dress

Runway inspiration: TibiFun, playful dresses are the hallmarks of spring, but this season, take a different approach by countering a too-girly dress (Sandro, $315; sandro-paris.com) with a no-nonsense, no-frills cargo jacket (American Eagle, $90; ae.com).